NewKerala.com

Key Points

A group of 28 Kerala pilgrims have been confirmed safe after being stranded near Gangotri during the recent Uttarakhand cloudburst. Multiple rescue teams, including the Army and State Disaster Response Force, are actively conducting relief operations in the affected region. The devastating natural disaster has caused significant damage to the Dharali market area and prompted warnings for residents to stay away from riverbanks. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has been personally overseeing the rescue efforts and ensuring coordinated response from all government agencies.

Key Points: Kerala Pilgrims Safe in Uttarakhand Cloudburst Rescue Efforts

  • 28 Kerala pilgrims confirmed safe after Uttarakhand cloudburst
  • Rescue teams from Army, Police, and SDRF conducting relief operations
  • Kheer Ganga river surge caused extensive damage in Dharali market
  • CM Dhami conducts aerial inspection of disaster-affected areas
2 min read

Uttarakhand cloudburst: 28 from Kerala safe; rescue efforts underway

28 Kerala pilgrims rescued after Uttarakhand cloudburst, with ongoing relief operations by state authorities and multiple agencies

"In Dharali, Uttarkashi, all government agencies, departments, and the Army are engaged in relief and rescue operations - Pushkar Singh Dhami, Uttarakhand CM"

Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 6

A total of 28 people from Kerala who were reported stranded in the aftermath of a cloudburst in Uttarakhand have been confirmed safe.

This was confirmed by the Uttarakhand Malayali Samajam president, Dinesh.

"The information was verified with the driver of the group besides an official confirmation of their safety has also been received," said Dinesh.

Besides, the relatives of the stranded individuals confirmed that the vehicle has been located.

This group was found stranded around 4 km away from Gangotri -- the main disaster site.

All these individuals from Kerala were on a pilgrimage trip and got stranded due to blocked roads, which has made their return difficult.

The devastating cloudburst in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district has triggered a wave of grief and concern across political lines, with leaders calling the tragedy a painful reminder of the vulnerability of the hilly regions to extreme natural disasters.

A surge in the Kheer Ganga river led to extensive damage in the Dharali market area.

The Uttarakhand Police confirmed that multiple disaster relief teams, including the State Disaster Response Force, Army, Fire Department, and police personnel, are carrying out relief and rescue operations.

Residents have been warned to stay away from riverbanks and ensure the safety of children and livestock.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami conducted an aerial inspection of the disaster-affected area in Uttarkashi on Wednesday and instructed officials to remain on 24-hour alert mode after inspecting the rising water levels of the river and the surrounding areas.

"In Dharali, Uttarkashi, all government agencies, departments, and the Army are engaged in relief and rescue operations with mutual coordination. Last night, more than 130 people were rescued. Closed routes are being reopened, and all possible assistance is being provided to the affected," CM Dhami said in a post on X.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP and actress-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut expressed deep anguish, saying: "Everyone is deeply pained by this incident. Those living in the hills are gripped by fear in the wake of such natural calamities."

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
As someone who visited Gangotri last year, I can say the infrastructure there is not prepared for such disasters. The roads are narrow and landslides happen frequently. Authorities need to take this seriously before more lives are lost.
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Sarah B
Heartbreaking to see nature's fury in Uttarakhand again. The rescue teams are doing commendable work in such difficult conditions. My prayers are with all affected families.
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Arjun K
While I appreciate the quick response, I wonder why warnings weren't issued earlier? The meteorological department had predicted heavy rains. Better coordination could have prevented this tragedy. #UttarakhandFloods
K
Kavya N
So relieved to hear the pilgrims from Kerala are safe! 🙌 But this incident shows how dangerous pilgrimage tourism can be during monsoon. Maybe the Char Dham yatra should have better safety protocols during rainy season?
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Vikram M
The Uttarakhand Malayali Samajam did great work in coordinating this information. Shows how our community organizations help during crises. Salute to all rescue workers braving difficult conditions! Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
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Nisha Z
Climate change is making these disasters more frequent. We need sustainable development in the Himalayas, not just more hotels and roads. The mountains are giving us warnings we

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